“In this degenerate age, one must kill so as not to be killed.” —Asaji
Today’s quick review: Throne of Blood. For their valor in defeating a rebellion, commanders Taketoki Washizu (Toshiro Mifune) and Yoshiaki Miki (Minoru Chiaki) are honored by the Great Lord (Takamaru Sasaki) of Spider’s Web Castle. But when a spirit (Chieko Naniwa) prophesies that Washizu will one day sit on his lord’s throne, his wife Asaji (Isuzu Yamada) urges Washizu to commit treason and take his rightful place as ruler.
Throne of Blood is a classic Japanese samurai drama directed by Akira Kurosawa. The film is a retelling of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, a tale of treachery, ambition, and ruin. Once a loyal soldier, Washizu betrays his lord and his friend in pursuit of power. Throne of Blood features strong performances from Toshiro Mifune and Isuzu Yamada as well as the sharp direction of Kurosawa. However, its particular style will not appeal to everyone.
Throne of Blood is more stylized than other Kurosawa films. The film clearly shows its roots as a play. The characters have human flaws, but they are larger than life, without the mundane touches seen in films like Seven Samurai. The plot contains everything it needs, although some of the key events happen offscreen. The film also shows traditional Japanese influences in its music, storytelling, and acting.
The final product is a skillfully crafted film that captures the drama of the source material. Fans of Shakespeare or classic tales of power and betrayal would do well to give Throne of Blood a shot. However, fans of the more grounded, personal side of Kurosawa’s work will find that Throne of Blood fits into a somewhat different niche. For a dramatic epic from Kurosawa that’s larger in scope, try Seven Samurai.
[8.1 out of 10 on IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0050613/). I give it a 7.5 for fine cinematography and potent conflict; your score will vary according to taste.